Barcelona - Albert Costa was on Thursday named as the new captain of Spain's Davis Cup team, replacing Emilo Sanchez Vicario who resigned after leading his country to the 2008 title 3-1 over Argentina last month in Mar del Plata.

Costa was favourite to take over the post and receives a one-year contract. Spain begin the defence of their Davis Cup title next year March 6-8 against Serbia in Benidorm.

"For me the nomination is a recognition of my total career," said the 33-year-old, who was part of Spain's Davis Cup winning team in 2000 and is believed to have beaten off competition from former player Alex Corretja.

On Wednesday, Argentine officials sprang a surprise with their selection of unknown Modesto Vazquez as new captain.

The 59-year-old replaces Alberto Mancini, who stepped down after the host nation lost to Spain.

"We have chosen two professionals with a lot of experience and long careers in tennis," said Enrique Morea, president of the Argentine federation.

Vazquez is working as federation development director, but played ties for his South American nation in 1968 and 1970.

Left out of the running were bigger names including former legend Guillermo Vilas and Martin Jaite. (dpa)